The story of the wise men (Magi) who followed a star and gave gifts to Jesus, has generated much research and speculation over the centuries – especially concerning what the star was, and who the wise men were.

SO, who were they?

They were probably descendants of the Jews who were exiled to Babylon in the time of Daniel (700BC). When they read the signs, they knew they needed to travel to Jerusalem and look for the Messiah (King of Israel). Some have suggested that they were astrologers, but if they were Jews they would know that God decreed such practices off-limits. Besides, there is a lot of difference between recognizing signs that God had written into our mathematically precise universe, and an elaborate scheme linking our daily lives to the movements of the stars and planets.

BUT, whether we call them astronomers or astrologers does not really matter because the signs in the sky only got them as far as Jerusalem. Without the more specific directions of the Scriptures – courtesy of the prophet Micah – they would not have known to go to Bethlehem; and without the cooperation of the local Bethlehem community, who had known about Jesus for over a year, they would never have found the child and might as well have stayed home. Furthermore, when these wise men finally found Jesus, their heads were bowed in worship to Him, not looking up into the skies for more signs.

SO, WHAT CAN WE LEARN FROM THEIR JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY?

FIRSTLY, they saw the signs – because they studied the skies that God had created, and kept meticulous observations of everything they saw. (If you want to know more about what they saw, go to 'The Star of Bethlehem' on You tube)

SECONDLY, they were willing to consider all evidence, no matter where it came from. The prophecy about Bethlehem was crucial to their search.

THIRDLY, they were willing to listen to the personal testimonies of those who already knew about Jesus, and could point them in the right direction.

What about you?. Are you willing to follow the evidence and see where it leads? Wise men and women still seek Him and find Him today